Watson leaves Warriors

Watson has held the position of club CEO since late 2000 when Cullen Sports Ltd took over the Warriors.

"Mick has done an outstanding job for this club since coming into the role," said Kidd.

"But after five years in the job he has told us he wants to look at new challenges. We thank him for what he has done in helping to build the Warriors to where they are now. He goes with our best wishes and support in his future endeavours."

Watson said his time with the Warriors had been challenging, rewarding and exciting.

"I've enjoyed my time working in sport," he said.

"I'm thankful I've been able to work with so many great people in the club but I think it's time for me, and for my family, to do other things.

"I'm a person who relishes new challenges. That's why I came here in the first place. Now I've been handed a new opportunity to take on a new challenge."

Warriors majority owner Eric Watson said Mick Watson had played a huge role in rebuilding the club.

"When we had problems in 2004, Mick had to remove himself from Cullen Sports projects and come back into the rugby league business," he said.

"He has now identified that he needs a change. That will see him working on international ventures."

During Mick Watson's time at the club, the Warriors reached the NRL finals for the first time in their history (2001), repeated the feat the next two seasons and, in 2002, also won the minor premiership and made the grand final for the first time.

Kidd said Watson would stay at the club to see it through the transitional period until his successor had been appointed.